If you fancy yourself as the next Lord Lichfield or David Bailey, then Richard Soley at Ringwood Camera Club is inviting you to come along to a couple of free photographic taster sessions.

According to Richard, a point-and-shoot camera is perfectly fine for taking photos, however, if you want to be up there with the pros, you should read on.

“Today’s cameras are wonderful pieces of technological wizardry that enable almost anyone to take reasonable photographs with minimum mental input,” he says. “They don’t call them ‘point and shoot’ for nothing.” And yet, he says that taking more professional-looking photographs isn’t overly difficult and certainly needn’t cost you a fortune in camera equipment.

While most ‘point and shoots’ work well, Richard points out that the settings are decided in the factory and designed to respond to all lighting conditions and whatever abuse new owners might throw at them.

“The answer is to look at all the other markings on the camera dial and set up your camera for the conditions that you find yourself in,” he says. “This isn’t as difficult as it seems, although it does help to have a mentor to guide you through the first attempts at overriding the Auto setting. “My personal advice would be to either approach a photographically-savvy friend or, if you don’t have one, join a camera club. Mine is Ringwood Camera Club.” On the first Tuesday of each month, the Club holds a beginners’ class for those who have the desire but lack the knowledge to become the next Lichfield or Bailey. “The class is very laid back,” says Richard, “and you learn at your own speed.

“Although there is a set programme each week, there are invariably other odd club members there who can help on a one-to-one basis if you’re struggling or want advice on how to tackle a particularly baffling scenario.

“As the first few lessons are free, you lose nothing by giving it a go and should you be of a more competent standard or just want a chat for advice on anything photographic, then try our normal club nights.” Like the beginners club, the first couple of visits are also free – so, what are you waiting for?

For information visit ringwoodcameraclub.co.uk or call 07534 416882.

By Lorraine Gibson
newsdesk@stourandavon.net